Delhi’s much-loved free bus travel scheme for women is set to undergo a major digital transformation. From 2026, the Delhi government will phase out the existing pink paper tickets and introduce a new ‘Pink Saheli Smart Card’, making Aadhaar-based verification mandatory for availing free travel on DTC and cluster buses.
The move aims to modernise the public transport system, curb misuse, and ensure that benefits reach genuine residents of Delhi.
What Is Changing in the Free Bus Travel Scheme
Since 2019, women in Delhi have been travelling free on buses using pink tickets. Under the new system, women will need to tap the Pink Saheli Smart Card on electronic ticketing machines while boarding buses. The card will digitally record each journey, improving transparency and accountability.
Aadhaar with Delhi Address Mandatory
To obtain the Pink Saheli Smart Card, women must have an Aadhaar card with a Delhi address. The scheme will apply to girls and women aged 12 years and above. Personal identification details will be linked to the card to prevent duplication and misuse.
Around 2 Crore Women to Benefit Monthly
According to government data, nearly 2 crore women travel by Delhi buses every month. The smart card system will allow authorities to accurately track usage and measure the scheme’s real impact.
Three Types of Smart Cards Planned
The Delhi Transport Department is working on launching three different smart cards:
Pink Saheli Smart Card:
Exclusively for women, offering completely free travel on DTC and cluster buses.
Special Smart Card:
For senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and existing bus pass holders, offering dedicated benefits.
General Smart Card:
For all passengers, similar to a metro card, which can be recharged and reused.
Registration Counters Across Delhi
To make enrollment easy, registration counters will be set up at DM and SDM offices, bus depots, and Common Service Centres (CSCs) across Delhi. Two private agencies or banks will be responsible for issuing the cards and managing operations.
Implementation Timeline
The government plans to roll out the smart card-based system in 2026, after completing all technical and administrative preparations. Officials indicated that once readiness is achieved, the transition could begin anytime after mid-January.
Focus on Transparency and Digital Governance
Officials say the new system will help eliminate leakages, reduce unnecessary expenditure, and build a fully digital, unified ticketing ecosystem for Delhi’s public transport network.
